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Looking for a dog that’ll thrive right next to you through it all? Want a pup that loves nothing more than spending time together? Confused about where to start?
Here, we list the best companion dogs, including the best small and medium-sized companions, who thrive in human company.
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What do we mean by a companion dog?
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We define a companion dog as one who is happiest when they’re with you, out and about, or sitting next to you on the sofa.
They’re dogs that thrive with constant human interaction, with an openness to engage in whatever you’re doing.
These dogs have an eagerness to please and a high level of affection but also tend to suffer from things like separation anxiety due to their need for company.
Of course, all dogs can offer these qualities, but these ten are the ones who are at their happiest and perform best when they’re by your side.
The best companion dog breeds
Bichon Frisé
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Bichon Frisés are small, friendly dogs that are known for their eagerness to please. They’re inseparable from their owners, easy to train and are a great choice for first-time pet parents.
They’re technically hypoallergenic too, and their love for humans and their owners makes them one of the best small companion dogs.
We'd say they're among the best small companion dogs for seniors too.
Border Collie
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Known as a strong working dog, Border Collies are used to spending all day out and about with their owners.
But if you aren’t a farmer, this means they’re one of the best medium-sized companion dogs; they’re trainable, high-energy, eager to learn and love spending time with you.
Just be aware that exercise and mental enrichment are a must for Border Collies, and you might find they’re difficult as a first-time owner.
Chihuahua
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If you’ve ever owned a Chihuahua, you know they’re with you through thick or thin. They’re fiercely loyal dogs, and as you’ve probably seen, they’re comfortable spending all day out and about with their owners.
But they do need rigorous socialisation and training, as their protective nature can manifest as aggression and excessive barking.
Dachshund
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Dachshunds make excellent companions thanks to their affectionate, playful and loyal nature. They form strong bonds with their owners quickly and love attention from their family.
Despite their small size, Dachshunds are energetic and playful and like to socialise with their human companions. Since they get so much energy from their owners, you can keep them by your side for a long time.
Golden Retriever
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Golden Retrievers are incredibly popular for a few reasons: friendliness, loyalty, intelligence and the strong bonds they form with their owners.
They have a playful, surprising temperament, and they get a lot of energy from being near those they love. Their gundog history means they’re very quick to learn, and they won’t mind being your companion through rain or shine.
They’re very loyal dogs, and if you’re looking for one of the best medium-sized companion dogs, you can’t go wrong with a Golden.
Irish Wolfhound
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Irish Wolfhounds are known for their mellow, gentle nature, and they're one of the best big companion dogs thanks to their calm, patient and affectionate personalities.
They’re ideal family dogs, and despite their laidback attitude, they love to spend time with their owners – they’re easy to manage and they may be the best companion dogs for anxious dogs in your family too.
Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retrievers are very popular dogs, and it’s easy to see why: they’re friendly, adaptable, intelligent and don’t mind spending all day with us humans.
Their intelligence means they need plenty of mental enrichment and lots of exercise, but generally, they’re happy enough to be our companions no matter what. They get along well with other dogs, too.
Labradors have fans across the world for their affectionate temperament, making them patient, surprising companions for life.
Miniature Schnauzer
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Miniature Schnauzer owners always talk about how loyal, lively and attached their dogs are, and that’s because the humble Schnauzer forms strong bonds with their owners quickly. For that reason, they're up there with the best dogs as companions.
These affectionate, loyal dogs are highly intelligent with spirited, fun-loving personalities; it makes them excellent companions who love to learn, see and adapt to new things.
Papillon
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Papillons are known as one of the most intelligent dog breeds, which makes them a joy to spend all day with and train. But they’re also fantastic companions, especially if you can keep them mentally stimulated and active throughout the day.
Their intelligence is matched by their eagerness to please and patience, but remember, where there’s intelligence, you can find stubbornness, so make sure you use positive reinforcement training if you get one.
Pomeranian
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What do you notice first about Pomeranians? No, we’re not talking about their fluffy coat or adorable looks – it’s how they’re always by their owner’s side!
These lively, affectionate dogs are an excellent choice if you want a playful partner who’s alert and watchful. Above all else, they’re loyal to their owners, and they’ll happily be your companion wherever you go.
Do note that Pomeranians often need training to control their vocalisation and need to be carefully watched around children.
How dog insurance can help when you're a new owner
No matter which dog you pick, we're sure they'll be the best companion to you.
Remember: our dog insurance helps with up to £15,000 vet fee cover, unlimited 24/7 vet calls with FirstVet and a host of ManyPets Perks.
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